EFFISAYIL 2 Data Suggest Unmet Needs in Generalized Pustular Psoriasis Care

Baseline data from the EFFISAYIL 2 trial suggested that traditional small-molecule therapies fail to adequately address the burden of generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP). 

The analysis, presented as a poster at Masterclasses in Dermatology 2025 in Sarasota, included 121 patients. Most participants entered the trial with incomplete skin clearance (GPPGA = 1) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores, indicating a moderate-to-severe impact on quality of life. Prior to trial enrollment, 74% of patients were treated with systemic small-molecule medications (acitretin, cyclosporine, or methotrexate). The results showed that over 80% of patients across treatment groups did not achieve clear skin, highlighting what the authors noted as significant gaps in existing treatment paradigms. 

These findings underscore the necessity for targeted therapies like spesolimab, which has shown promise in reducing the clinical burden of GPP. The data call for a shift toward more effective, evidence-based treatment strategies to meet the unmet needs of GPP patients.

"Despite treatment with traditional small-molecule therapy prior to randomization, many patients entering EFFISAYIL 2 still demonstrated incomplete skin clearance and had DLQI scores of greater than 5, reflecting a moderate effect on QoL These findings suggest that patients would benefit from approved, targeted GPP therapy to reduce the clinical burden of GPP."

Source: Mostaghimi, A, Merola J, Gottlieb A, et al. Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) control is limited on traditional small-molecule therapy as measured by the GPPGA and DLQI: Baseline data from the EFFISAYIL® 2 trial. Presented at: Masterclasses in Dermatology, Sarasota, FL, USA; February 20–23, 2025.